1965 Map of Iron Mountain

About this map

Gila National Forest encompasses the western half of this landscape, where the terrain is marked by a legacy of resource extraction and ranching. Several historic mining operations are scattered across the slopes, including the Minnehaha Mine, Republic Mine, and Blackhawk Mine further south. These sites, along with the Paymaster Mine and Invincible Mine, reflect the mid-century mineral prospecting that defined this region of New Mexico. The small settlement of Grafton is situated near Turkey Creek, while the eastern portion of the map is dominated by the high ridge of Iron Mountain and Reilly Peak. Drainage patterns are dictated by prominent watercourses such as Poverty Creek and Hipp Creek, which cut through the dry canyons. Ranching activity is evident at Sage Ranch and Moore Ranch, connected by the rugged North Pack Trail and a network of unimproved roads.